Carole Jean Goehring

Carole Jean Goehring (Craig) of Chaska MN, 78, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Carole lived life to the fullest, marked by love, resilience and a profound dedication to her family, faith and friends.

Born in Sioux Falls, SD to Ralph William Craig and Mary Ellen Craig, the family later moved to Rapid City where Carole excelled in school and developed an ear for music during her childhood. Carole, following her passion for helping children, graduated Summa Cum Laude from Black Hills State College in 1968 with a degree in education and started her career as a teacher. Also in 1968, Carole married Vern Goehring, and in 1974 they settled in Minnesota to raise a family. Together they had three boys and Carole poured her heart into being a mother, a role she cherished. Carole dedicated herself to supporting her family, spending countless hours helping with homework, cheering at hockey games, organizing vacations, and always being the safety net when challenges arose. Putting others first was her gift, and nothing brought her more joy than seeing her family happy.

In the early 90’s Carole began her career at Northwest Airlines, giving her flight benefits to help connect her family even more. Family trips to Rapid City where her boys could connect with extended family was a highlight for Carole, the memories she created will be treasured by so many. Rising to “Grandma Carole” as her next role allowed Carole to share her love and boundless enthusiasm for family with the next generation. A doting grandmother, she lit up with love and joy while interacting with her grandkids and supporting them just like she had with her boys. There wasn’t much better in the world than a visit from Grandma Carole as she surrounded her grandkids with unlimited love, laughs, and many happy memories.

Carole is preceded in death by parents Ralph and Mary Ellen Craig and former husband Vern Goehring. She is survived by brothers Bill (Dianne) Craig, Jim (Becky) Craig, her three sons, Lee (Lisa) Goehring, Jeffrey Goehring and Karl (Laura) Goehring. Carole is also survived by her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly, Carly, Leah, Halle, Lily, Arthur, and Aurora Stock, along with countless other friends and family.

A celebration of life will be held Tuesday April 22nd at The Woods Retreat, 525 Leaf St. Long Lake, MN 55356. Visitation at 10am, service at 11am, with lunch reception to follow. A private family burial will be in Rapid City, SD at a later date. In honor of Carole’s vibrant spirit and love for nature, please wear bright colors. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.